Why Do Children Become Obese?

According to Bennet (2010), children are now having similar health problems as adults because of obesity. Many factors help contribute to weight gain but a primary factor is a lack of physical activity. It is most common now that children spend more time inside their homes rather than outside (Patel, 2005). For youth, parents play an important role in guiding their child in the right steps as for as health behaviors. Previous research insists that youth that is from a lower SES status are more prone to becoming obese. It is assumed that being of a lower status, individuals are not educated about the dangers and risks of becoming obese (Patel, 2005). In a study conducted by Bennet (2010), a sample of African American urban youth does not the chance of becoming obese when neglected. However, both children from the neglected group and non-neglected have high BMI's when comparing it to CDC norms. As described by Skuse (1985), the definition of neglect is when the basic needs of a child are not being met. Poor parental supervision can lead to excessive eating in children. There needs to be a further examination of whether neglect in childhood can determine becoming overweight. …show more content…
For adolescent's peer acceptance is very important for development (Patel, 2005). When being obese, it is particularly hard to engage in physical activity and adolescents is an important time to build relationships with others (Pizzi, 2013). Being accepted by others is very important and no one wants to be judged by the way they look. Activities are a good way for children to improve their mental and emotional health. In a study conducted by Pizzi (2013), the goal is to see whether therapy helps children overcome bully and low self-esteem. For a child of a young age, parents play an important role in guiding their lifestyles and if done poorly children will end up overweight or